Hello, I'm Dr. Smith, a nephrologist with over 20 years of experience in the field. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, including kidney stones.

Leaving kidney stones untreated can lead to a variety of complications, ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening situations. The severity of these complications depends on several factors, including the size and location of the stone, as well as the overall health of the individual.

Here's a breakdown of potential complications associated with untreated kidney stones:

Pain: This is the most common symptom associated with kidney stones. The pain can be excruciating and may come in waves, radiating from the back to the groin, abdomen, or even the testicle or labia. The intensity of the pain can vary, but it is usually described as one of the most severe types of pain a person can experience.

Infection: If the stone blocks the urinary tract, urine can back up, increasing the risk of infection. This can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can be serious, especially in people with weakened immune systems. In severe cases, infection can spread to the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis, a serious kidney infection that requires immediate medical attention.

Kidney damage: If a stone blocks the flow of urine for an extended period, it can put pressure on the kidney, leading to hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney). This can damage the kidney tissue, leading to decreased kidney function over time. In extreme cases, the kidney may even be permanently damaged.

Blood in the urine: The passage of a stone can cause hematuria, or blood in the urine. This is usually a sign that the stone is moving and can be accompanied by pain. While hematuria is often a harmless symptom, it can also indicate a more serious condition, such as a tear in the lining of the urinary tract.

Kidney failure: While rare, untreated kidney stones can lead to kidney failure, especially if they cause repeated infections or damage to the kidney tissue. Kidney failure is a serious condition that requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.

Other complications: Depending on the size and location of the stone, other complications can arise, such as:

* Obstruction of the ureter: The ureter is the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Stones can block the ureter, leading to the symptoms described above.
* Hydronephrosis: If the stone blocks the ureter, urine backs up into the kidney, causing it to swell. This is known as hydronephrosis.
* **Kidney stones can also cause complications during pregnancy, such as premature labor or low birth weight.**

**The good news is that most kidney stones can be treated effectively, and the vast majority of people fully recover.** Treatment options vary depending on the size, location, and severity of the stone.

**Here are some common treatment options for kidney stones:**

* Pain relief: Pain medication can be used to manage the pain associated with kidney stones.
* Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush the stone out of the urinary tract.
* Alpha-blockers: These medications can relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for the stone to pass.
* Lithotripsy: This procedure uses shock waves to break up the stone into smaller pieces that can be passed in the urine.
* Ureteroscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached into the ureter. The stone can be removed using various tools, including baskets, forceps, or laser.
* Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: This procedure involves making a small incision in the back and inserting a tube into the kidney to remove the stone.

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with kidney stones, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure a full recovery.

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Kidney damage, if stones block the flow of urine out of both kidneys (or out of one kidney, for people who have a single kidney). For most people with healthy kidneys, kidney stones do not cause serious damage until they completely block the urinary tract for 2 weeks or longer.read more >>